Hosta Sum and Substance

Hosta ‘Sum and Substance’ is a true garden giant, renowned for its impressive size and luminous chartreuse-green foliage. This robust perennial commands attention with its massive, heart-shaped leaves that can span up to 60 cm across, creating a bold architectural statement in any shaded garden. Its thick, textured leaves not only provide outstanding visual impact but are also highly resistant to slug damage, making it a practical and beautiful addition to borders, woodland gardens, or large containers. Ideal for filling expansive spaces, this hosta offers a stunning backdrop for smaller plants and creates a sense of grandeur in any setting.

Reaching up to 75–90 cm in height and spreading to 1.2–1.8 metres, ‘Sum and Substance’ is among the largest hostas available. In midsummer, tall flower stems emerge, bearing clusters of pale lavender blooms that add a soft contrast to its vibrant foliage. Thriving in partial to full shade, this variety performs well in fertile, moist soils and provides season-long beauty with minimal effort. Its adaptability and dramatic presence make it a favourite for creating striking, low-maintenance landscapes.

Learn how to grow Hosta

Key Features

• Height and Spread: Grows to 75–90 cm in height with a spread of 1.2–1.8 metres.
• Foliage: Massive, chartreuse-green, heart-shaped leaves with a thick, textured surface.
• Blooming Period: Pale lavender flowers appear on tall stems in midsummer.
• Adaptability: Thrives in partial to full shade; performs best in moist, well-drained soils.
• Notable Traits: Slug-resistant foliage; excellent for large spaces and bold garden designs.

Planting and Care Tips:
Select a site with partial to full shade to prevent leaf scorch and maintain vibrant colour.
Plant in fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter for optimal growth.
Water deeply and consistently, particularly during dry spells, to support its large foliage.
Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 5–7 years in early spring or autumn to maintain vigour.